The Finnish Institute in the Middle East (FIME) is recruiting a doctoral or postdoctoral researcher for a fixed term of 1.5.2026–30.4.2028 (2 years). The position is located at the Institute in Beirut, Lebanon.
The Finnish Institute in the Middle East is an academic institute that focuses on the study of Middle East in contemporary and classical periods within a variety of disciplines in humanities, social sciences, law, theology and education. The Institute supports Finnish research on the Middle East and offers teaching in cooperation with universities. The institute also brings research-based perspectives to public discussions on the Middle East. The Finnish Institute in the Middle East operates in the whole region with an office in Beirut, Lebanon. Working in FIME offers an excellent vantage point for research on the Middle East in Finland.
The position is intended primarily for a Finnish researcher or a researcher working in Finland in a suitable field. The salary for the position is determined according to the level of post-doc or doctoral researcher, but researchers who are further along in their careers can also apply for the position.
The work tasks and duties are demanding, and previous experience in the following is considered an asset:
- scientific, academic, and popular publishing
- organizing international events
- the Middle East and working in a multicultural environment
- communications
Excellent English and decent Finnish skills are mandatory. Arabic skills or knowledge of another major language of the MENA region are also appreciated. Researchers are expected to conduct independent research. Success in the role requires initiative, unprejudiced attitude, flexibility, and patience.
Work tasks, salary, housing benefits, duration of the term
50% of working time will be devoted to one’s own research. The other 50 % will include administrative duties, teaching, external communications, organizing courses and events as well as other tasks assigned by the director of the institute.
Salary of a postdoc or more senior researcher is 3 266 euroa/kk per month (gross). Salary of an advanced doctoral researcher is 3025 euros per month (gross). In addition, the costs of living in Beirut are compensated up to 500 euros per month (taxable housing benefit).
The position is fixed-term and begins in spring 2026.
Application
Job applications with attached letter of motivation, curriculum vitae (max. 4 pages), list of publications and research plan (max. 5 pages) are to be submitted via online form by 1st March 2026 at 23.59 Finnish time. We also ask you to provide contact details for two referees. Doctoral researchers must include dissertation supervisor’s letter indicating academic progress.
Interviews will be held via Zoom the week of March 2, 2026. The Foundation’s Board of Trustees will make a decision on the selection at its meeting on March 25, 2026.
For any questions, do not hesitate to contact the Director of the Institute Dr Susanne Dahlgren (name.surname@fime.fi).
More information is available on The Finnish Institute in the Middle East and the Foundation for the Finnish Institute in the Middle East.